WHICH GRAPHIC SHOULD I USE?
Graphics On Web Pages
High Power Graphics examines the different graphic file types and explains how to add them to Web pages. There are different graphic image links for you to explore on the sidebar. Use the sidebar graphics links to link to a page for an explanation of each of the graphics, it's usage, and an example of the graphic images itself.
Used properly, graphics can add interest, generate enthusiasm for your Web site, and can promote interaction too. Graphics can be also be divided into sections that each link to different Web Pages. When a graphic is used in this manner, it is called an image map or clickable map. You can include animation as well by using animated graphic files, movies, and sophisticated plug-ins.
Click the link below to try a interaction clickable map map of United States.
http://www.cdc.noaa.gov/data/usclimate/states.fast.html
General Graphic Usage Rules and Tips:
If a visitor to your Web site cannot view a Web page within 10 seconds of requesting the page, they are not likely to stay and wait. As a rule of thumb:
- Keep the total size of all files to be downloaded for a single page to about 50 KB.
- Too many images can be distracting and make your page look amateurish.
- For graphic files – If you use 8-bit instead of 24-bit graphics, the clarity and color might not be as great, but the download time is shorter.
- Whenever possible, use compressed audio or graphic files.
- If a graphic can be stored as TIFF or a JPEG, choosed the JPEG option.
- GIF files are usually smaller unless you can compress a JPEG file.
- Use solid background colors, textured backgounds results in a larger file size.
- Use as few colors possible to keep your file size smaller.
References:
i-Net+ Guide to the internet-Jean Andrews and Wally Beck
Blended HTML, XHTML, and CSS, Henry Bojack